Confessions of a Polluted Mindset - Yes, I'm Mocking You
The Weekly Packers Brain Drain from Jersey Al.
By JerseyAl
Yes, this mockingbird is singing today. Here's my one and only attempt at a Packers seven round mock draft. Keep in mind, this is more of a "what I would like to see happen", as opposed to a "guess what they will do" mock draft.
Round 1, Pick 22 - Chris Olave, WR, Ohio State. He has been my pick for the Packers since the draft season started, so I'm sticking with it. I'm hoping that all the WR hype has been a media creation, as comments attributed to actual NFL scouts have not been as enthusiastic about the top names in this group of WRs. I believe that Olave has the type of skill set that will work well in the Packers' offensive scheme and offers the consistency and reliability to earn Rodgers' trust sooner rather than later.
Round 1, Pick 28 - Arnold Ebiketie, EDGE, Penn State - It seems to me that Ebiketie is being unjustly overlooked a bit by Packers Draft Nation. Ebiketie is the type of edge rusher the Packers don't have - that bendy, speed on the edge, high effort guy, like Clay Matthews once was. He could be an instant contributor as a situational pass rusher, while hitting the weight room and learning the other aspects of the position. I think he would be a perfect complement to Gary and Smith, as opposed to say, a George Karlaftis, who more resembles those two in body type and play style.
Round 2, Pick 53 - Christian Watson, WR North Dakota State - Another player I've been on forever, Watson is the MVS replacement for the Packers. With a 4.32 40 time, he may be faster than MVS, and with a Wonderlic score supposedly in the high thirty's could be a faster study. The Bison's offensive scheme did little to feature Watson or the passing game in general, and yet over his four-year career he still averaged more than 20 yds per catch. His rookie year may be little more than "go make the safeties chase you," but that's something the Packers will need with MVS gone. The icing on the cake is that he returned kickoffs as well, averaging over 26 yds per return and taking two to the house.
Round 2, Pick 59 - Abraham Lucas, OT, Washington State - Lucas is a four-year starter at right tackle who earned All-Pac12 honors all four seasons he was with the Cougars. On tape, he's the most polished-looking right tackle pass protector in the draft. He displays excellent lateral movement and short space agility on tape and backed that up with the best 3-cone and 20-yd shuttle times of all offensive linemen at the combine. He needs to get stronger to improve his run blocking, but he won't embarrass you. I think he's a perfect fit for the Packers.
Round 3, Pick 92 - Nick Cross, S, Maryland - If he's there, the Packers should once again step up and draft a Univ. of Maryland safety - perhaps as a possible replacement next year for the last one they took (Darnell Savage). Cross plays a more physical style than Savage and has more speed to boot. He should also be a strong special teams player. Most rankings I've seen have him listed as a third-round prospect, but I'm thinking he should go higher. Anyway, here's hoping he doesn't.
Round 4, Pick 132 - Eyloma Uwazurike, DT, Iowa State - He can play any position on the line, and the Packers need that kind of versatile rotational piece. He plays with a high motor, penetrates, pursues the ball, and at over 6'5", should be able to knock down some passes. Uwazurike and Slaton would give the Packers a nice pair of rotational defensive linemen.
Round 4, Pick 140 - Daniel Bellinger, TE, San Diego State - Well, if the Darren Waller trade rumors come to fruition, scratch this pick. Bellinger is a nice Y tight end prospect who appears to have all the tools necessary to develop into an NFL starter down the road. He's presently more of a receiver than a blocker, but that can be said of a lot of tight ends coming out of college. He'll need to get stronger and work on blocking techniques, but I like Bellinger as an under-the-radar development tight end.
Round 5, Pick 171 - D.Marco Jackson, ILB, Appalachian State - It's time to start thinking about special teams and backup depth at ILB, so we kill two birds with one stone by tapping into the 2021 Sun Belt Defensive Player of the Year. He may be a bit on the smaller side, but he's fast, athletic, and makes plays all over the field. He's best out in space, as he can struggle to get off blocks. There's a lot to work with here.
Round 7, Pick 228 - Zach Tom, C/G, Wake Forest - Here's the perfect replacement for Lucas Patrick. He actually played two seasons at left tackle and then two more at center. He will give the Packers the center/guard backup versatility they covet. He's athletic and smart, but will need a year on the practice squad while he works to build up his core strength, especially in his lower body.
Round 7, Pick 249 - Dare Rosenthal, OT, Kentucky - This is the Yosh Nijman Project 2.0. Dare is long and athletic with quick feet, but needs a few years of development to add some power and learn proper techniques. He dropped 30 pounds since the season ended, which could mean keeping weight on is a struggle. There are lots of things that need to be corrected, but his natural athleticism could make it a worthwhile roll of the dice down the line.
Round 7, Pick 258 - Jaylon Watson, CB, Washington State - A community college transfer and one-year starter for the Cougars, he's short on experience but has the size (6'1" 197lbs.) and physical ability worth taking a shot on.
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"Jersey Al" Bracco is the Editor-In-Chief, part owner and wearer of many hats for CheeseheadTV.com and PackersTalk.com. He is also a recovering Mason Crosby truther. Follow Al on twitter at @JerseyalGBP.
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Comments (212)
Savage57
April 27, 2022 at 06:10 am
Reminds me of the John Malkovich skit on SNL. "You mock me!", with Jon Lovitz and Dana Carvey capering in the background mocking him.
I wonder if Gute remains true to his tendency to move around in the first. I'd still like to see if he couldn't trade one of his firsts to any of the eight teams without a one for a high/mid second and third.
Six picks in the top 100 spreads the risk, and plays better with the cap over the next couple of years.
murf7777
April 27, 2022 at 07:16 am
I foresee a draft where Gutey trades a 4th rounder to go up for his first pick and trades down on the second to gain another high 2nd and 3rd rounder. I would have no problem with that because I think it’s important to get a guy you covet and the draft is deep in talent in the beginning rounds. Don’t want Gutey missing out on a something similar to 2 years ago when he lost out on Jefferson and Ayuik.
Coldworld
April 27, 2022 at 08:48 am
Seems very plausible if there are players that he covets that fall close enough, based on the past. I’m not sure that will happen, but then again I think this draft will produce plenty of surprises.
Packerfanben
April 27, 2022 at 06:45 am
Yes Please! Gold
stockholder
April 27, 2022 at 06:48 am
If It's hope rather than will. Isn't it a Fantasy draft? The only guy I see out of place is Christian Watson. I agree with Kiper. He should be the 1st pick of the packers.
#22. Christian Watson WR. ND State The best WR@ senior Bowl!
#28. George Pickens. WR. Georgia. Gutey is in Love. Forget Ojabo. But Ojabo will be an All-pro.
#53. Travis Jones. NT. Conn. My Favorite! Hopefully the others push him down.
#59. Bernhard Raimann OT. Cent. Mi. MCSHAY DROPPED HIM. A steal here.
#92. Calvin Austin. WR Memphis. Biggest threat in the draft
#132. Carson Strong. QB Nevada.
#140. James Cook. RB. Georgia
#171. Matt Araiza. P/PK. SD State
#228. Dane Belton. DB Iowa
#249. Percy Butler. S. Louisiana
#259. Jason Poe. G. Mercer
murf7777
April 27, 2022 at 07:07 am
Watson is the biggest boom or bust prospect in the draft IMO. Do you really want to use your first pick on that type of person. My biggest reason for not taking him in round 1 is because I think it is going to take a couple of years to get him up to speed in the offense. I like him for the long term thou.
stockholder
April 27, 2022 at 07:15 am
Pickens is rated the boom or bust. But the size of both Watson and Pickens is what you want outside. We only need 1 to be MVS now. Any WR in this draft should take 2 years. I still believe Burks is in play. But the more I heard he played in the slot. The more I agreed with Kiper.
MarkinMadison
April 27, 2022 at 07:35 am
Do you have a reason to know Gutey is in love with Pickens? I've seen you post it a couple of times now.
jannesbjornson
April 27, 2022 at 08:24 am
Copied from Packer Wire heart throbs.
LambeauPlain
April 27, 2022 at 09:06 am
I have never seen Gutey show his cards prior to any draft. Saying he is "in love" with a prospect is simply projection by the person declaring the narrative as fact. It ain't.
dobber
April 27, 2022 at 09:20 am
Yep!...and whomever he picks, he'll say they were on that guy from the start.
GMs always "got their guy".
It's GM speak and lack thereof. It's what they do.
murf7777
April 27, 2022 at 12:27 pm
Burks is a player who best fit a scheme that helps create spacing. You have to move him around like what SF does with Deebo. I'm not comparing, just stating that's the type of offense he needs to go to in order to be successful out of the gate. Mlf's system can work for Burks and I wouldn't be surprised if they take him in round 1.
jannesbjornson
April 27, 2022 at 12:51 pm
He doesn't have Deebo's burst. A 4.46/4.48 guy vs a 4.56 with Burks is a step plus in the NFL. Now for the Davonte retort. Adams shined for three years at Fresno State with Carr tossing spirals. What stood out immediately was his footwork and release off the line. He resembled Jerry Rice, his mentor of sorts from WR camps. Burks displays none of that technique. WRs develop the route tree of the offense they are drafted into. The screen games in the NFL are speed driven concepts.
LambeauPlain
April 27, 2022 at 01:26 pm
Speed is important in the screen and quick throws to the flat...blocking on the play is even more important as is ability to elude the tackle.
"A thousand one" spoken = a second of time. Try speaking 1/10th of a second. It is a difference in search of a distinction, IMO.
Burks is fast enough...see Adams.
Coldworld
April 27, 2022 at 02:31 pm
How does the incredibly agile Adams indicate Burks will be a success? Burks is fluid not sudden like Adams. Adams can wrong foot anyone. I really don’t know if Burks is fast enough, but he isn’t Adams. He needs space made for him.
jannesbjornson
April 27, 2022 at 02:50 pm
I have seen Jerry Rice a few times against the Pack. One viewpoint was from the endzone seats along with some 49r parents.
His footwork was lightening. He would put Iverson on the floor with the cross-step. Davonte emulated his Hero and his efforts paid off. You could see his natural technique during Bulldog games with Carr. The Pack was very lucky he fell to the second round.
LambeauPlain
April 27, 2022 at 01:27 pm
deleted dup post.
murf7777
April 27, 2022 at 01:44 pm
The 40 yard dash hardly defines burst and you would have to show me a play where he get's caught from behind by SEC DB's. I don't think there is one. There is play speed and track speed and they are different. The film shows he gets it done and that's one reason why he is rated on the Huddle consensus scale at #21.
Not sure where you are coming up with the Adams comparison, but I'm certainly not comparing him to Adams. They are totally different WR's IMO. I also wasn't comparing him to Deebo, I just stated he will need to be in a similar type of role, where the Offense creates spacing for him. Which I believe Mlf's offense does.
jannesbjornson
April 27, 2022 at 02:20 pm
You mentioned MLF's Scheme which would be comparable to Shanahan's usage of Deebo and as the One Pick would be replacing Adams looks, ergo the Devonte critique. Footwork off the line is critical. I watched quite a bit of Burks film.
murf7777
April 27, 2022 at 03:39 pm
You keep adding to my statements. I never said Burks would replace Adams looks, as you state. I don't believe any rookie will replace Adams in the beginning. It will need to be done thru all pass catchers.
jannesbjornson
April 27, 2022 at 02:35 pm
Trust your eyes with the FILM regarding burst, but they test for burst/ explosion with the long jump and vertical jump. Watson is a 11'-4" with 38.5 height vs Burks with a 10'-2 and 33"-0 height. 4.36 vs 4.55 is a step+
Deebo with a 39"-0 vertical similar broad jump. 4.46-4.48
Coldworld
April 27, 2022 at 02:43 pm
The problem is that Burks numbers at the combine were so bad. They either aren’t accurate or he’s a sheep in wolf’s clothing.
jannesbjornson
April 27, 2022 at 02:56 pm
I cannot get behind the guy. I was very much in favor of landing Deebo in the first round 2019, but they went with Savage over Thornhill later on down the line. Jenkins was gold in the second. Give him all the time he needs to recover.
Coldworld
April 27, 2022 at 03:16 pm
Deebo is a good receiver but even better with the ball in his hand out of the backfield. I didn’t really see that coming, but his burst and ability to change pace are something special. Burks will never be that: few will.
jannesbjornson
April 27, 2022 at 03:25 pm
He was dynamic at South Carolina chasing Sterling's records.
greengold
April 27, 2022 at 03:48 pm
Agree, Jannes. I don’t get it with Burks, and, I want to…!!!
Lol. Oh, well. I find it best to just move along on players like that. Either it all adds up, or, it doesn’t.
Coldworld
April 27, 2022 at 07:19 am
I couldn’t agree more Murf. Since we signed Rodgers that kind of pick makes no sense if we are looking for contributions now. If we aren’t, signing Rodgers makes no sense. Perhaps the world is that wired inside Lambeau, but I doubt it.
MVS was a 5th rounder for a reason. Watson has many similarities coming out in terms of development required. I’d love Watson in the 3rd if I really wanted to take a flyer, but he’s not going to be around then. Take Dareke Young on Saturday if we want a high upside STer to play with.
jannesbjornson
April 27, 2022 at 12:57 pm
The only similarities between Watson and MVS is height. Both had fast 40s. 4.36/4.37 Watson has the body control and loose hips for change of direction MVS doesn't have.
LambeauPlain
April 27, 2022 at 09:17 am
Based on Watson's college production, average yards per catch, QB rating of 146 when targeted, yards per play, blocking excellence, eye popping ST return skills, honor student and Walter Payton watchlist candidate...I can see evidence for the "boom".
What is the evidence for the "bust"...in fact one of your greatest potential busts in the draft?
dobber
April 27, 2022 at 09:22 am
Frankly, I think the DIC has blown Watson up and he'll go later in the 2nd or into the 3rd.
I wouldn't be surprised if only 2 WR are off the board when the Packers come up at 22.
LambeauPlain
April 27, 2022 at 09:47 am
I would be shocked if Watson lasted to the 3rd round. Would get a shock if he made it to #53.
Who made the other better...Trey Lance throwing to Christian Watson, or Christian Watson catching Trey's passes?
Watch the video. There are abundant examples of both helping each other to look good. And most of the examples display Watson's excellent ball skills.
jannesbjornson
April 27, 2022 at 10:02 am
If the 49rs move Up, you know who they are targeting. Get Watson @ #22. Follow your Stockholder's Advice.
murf7777
April 27, 2022 at 11:47 am
Ok JJ, i'll mark that one down.
Coldworld
April 27, 2022 at 03:12 pm
I agree Dobber. He is a great futures prospect and an athletic beast but he’s got a very big jump up in complexity and competition. Now folks are talking as if he’s a polished player coming out and as if he was a premier returner. Compared to Velus Jones that’s just silly in terms of both volume and opposition. Yes there is a lot to like in terms of potential, but the descriptions since the combine get more and more divorced from stats or film.
Do I think he could be a star? Yes that’s why I started talking about him when those analysts who mentioned him had him as a 7th or 6th round projection. Do I know that he will be a star? No. That’s the thing taking primarily on athleticism: there’s no guarantee that it translates or, if it does, when.
greengold
April 27, 2022 at 04:26 pm
Totally agree on the Watson blow up by DIC.
However, I believe with so little known about so many teams in this draft, you know… where we usually have pretty much the top dozen teams declaring intentions, wants, needs? We have NONE of that. Weird AF.
Which leads me to believe this will be big splash DEs, WRs, CBs, a good bunch of OL…. Those are positions that carry the sexy draft success stamps of approval. “Can’t miss…”
I think a bunch will be gone, maybe even Watson, before our 22.
What a Flippin’ boomerang eh!
WHAOH!!! #sorrynotsorry roflmao
murf7777
April 27, 2022 at 03:43 pm
His drop rate of over 10% as a senior and 20% as a junior. He also runs a very limited route tree which is going to take him time to learn. Against the competition he played against he didn't have to run an NFL type route tree. Doesn't mean he won't be successful in time, just not in the beginning two years IMO. The Packers don't have that time. There are more polished route runners and catchers in this draft.
jannesbjornson
April 27, 2022 at 12:45 pm
The PFF world is ridiculous with their minutia. Where was the ball delivered? When a guy goes acrobatic and snags balls at Full Speed (4.36) with a wide wingspan. I bag him with the #22. I am not taking a Guard in the first round.
murf7777
April 27, 2022 at 01:48 pm
JJ, I do agree with you on stats and your debate. So, compare him to other boundary receivers and what is their drop rate? That would be fair.
jannesbjornson
April 27, 2022 at 02:41 pm
It is not relevant until they see NFL QBs. His guy, Trey Lance was drafted in the First rd. He has 10"-0 mitts. plucks the ball over the DBs along the sideline and the explosion to gain RAC. I look at those traits, not a guy getting the long ball on a wide open look. They knew he was coming, he beat the double teams and rolled past two-high coverage.
greengold
April 27, 2022 at 07:51 pm
Watson only caught 18 passes in 2020. Not a major Lance-Watson connection.
The oversell on him is impressive. Wow. C’mon guys.
PhantomII
April 27, 2022 at 09:05 pm
Watson is a smooth runner and looks like he has good vision changing direction in traffic and adjusts well. As far as route tree....He's tall....He's very fast and has a large catch radius and will be thrown dimes by an MVP QB. His routes will be him and 2-5 yards later...a defender.
LambeauPlain
April 27, 2022 at 01:38 pm
As a senior, according to draft analysis I have read, had him dropping only 2 passes last year...below 5% overall.
He also made some incredible receptions, showing his ball skills.
Would Watson be the best #1 WR drafted by Pack? Very likely no (Loften and Sharpe are 1 and 2 or 2 and 1, IMO).
Will he produce in 2022? Oh yeah. In a variety of ways.
murf7777
April 27, 2022 at 03:45 pm
Look up his actual stats, I would have to say, draft analysis made an error.
jannesbjornson
April 27, 2022 at 07:23 am
Yes, I believe Olave goes top 15. Watson is also my guy over Burks or Pickens. He is next on the board. If Olave falls get both. He is a well-balanced athlete with the track background and has the aptitude to learn the Pro Game. Tutored by his dad who was drafted by the Pack and played in the NFL. He is not a one year highlight film. He has been making plays since his freshman year and took punts and kicks to the house like Freeman, Brooks and Jordy did at Whatsamatta U. Then my attention would turn to Lucas and a DT or Edge in Rd Two.
No picks for Waller.
jannesbjornson
April 27, 2022 at 08:29 am
Mock #25- All Al's Day:
#22 Watson WR
#28 Lucas RT
#53 Hall DT/5 tech
#59 Pierce WR
#92 A. Taylor CB/FS
#132 Kolar TE
#140 P, Strong Jr RB
#171 C. Paul OT/OG
#228 HORVATH FB
#249 L. Bruss OT
#258 Carpenter LB/SS
Lot of Intrigue still to come. Do they move Jaire? Make a deal for Waller? Lucas is moving Up. Might as well secure the pick. He has more mass, more base than Raimann.
"There Will Be Trades" You have to get Winfrey, Wyatt and Jones by the 30s or in the First.
stockholder
April 27, 2022 at 11:52 am
very logical First 4. - I took Carson Strong later; because everyone will have a Qb, that wanted one. And who knows. They still might trade Love.
jannesbjornson
April 27, 2022 at 01:17 pm
He's a pocket guy, but so is Brady. The Nevada offense was definitely "all gas, no brakes" Too many holes in the dyke for me to commit to a QB. If they move Love, that would be another story. Alontae Taylor is an All Academic guy. (4.36) who is aggressive against the TEs and the run. He can go Star to FS. Not a finesse guy. 2nd team All SEC.
He's the guy who covered the 'Bama bunch and went up against Tillman and Velus Jones in Practice. Look for the competitors.
Looking for speed with all the picks. TEAM SPEED. Will the dinosaurs ever get used to the idea? I want a fullback in this offense. They set the tone in WCO schemes. Horvath is the guy. If LaFleur utilizes any more of the MM spread sheet from the Nextgen Guru's preference list, he can go along with the one and done.
Coldworld
April 27, 2022 at 08:55 am
Arguably the best catcher was Ferguson and of the receivers, Velus with 4 for 53. Watson had one catch for 38.
Ferguson was the player who surprised me and many. If that’s what he really is, perhaps we’ve overlooked him, but then again, these bowl games can be deceptive.
dobber
April 27, 2022 at 09:26 am
Ferguson is good in the short and intermediate zones. He knows how to get open and has good hands. He doesn't have great speed, and isn't a formidable blocker...he can learn the latter. End of third to middle 4th guy. Good value there.
jannesbjornson
April 27, 2022 at 01:27 pm
Just worry about his concussion history. He knows how to get open and lock on LBs.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
April 27, 2022 at 09:06 am
SH,
A lot to like about your draft though
I'd prefer the highest rated players (BPA) particularly in round 1 versus drafting for need. None of us know for sure where Watson and Pickens will be selected but every mock shows them in round 2. Personally, I believe if you want them Gutey will need to move up high in round 2 to get one of them though more and more I've been thinking Pickens may end up being a late #1.
Totally agree Ojabo is going to be an All Pro. His video is outstanding and would love the Packers to take a chance on him. He will be special and I think he has a chance to be better than Gary in pass rush. He is one of the players I'd gladly take at 28 even though he may not play in 2022...he is that good! Screw the must win now draft stuff! He is that good and you don't normally get many shots at guys like Ojabo unless you are in top 10 -15.
I'd love both Travis Jones, and Calvin Austin but I believe both unfortunately will be gone higher than you show. Those two alone would make the draft special but would love them in green and gold.
dobber
April 27, 2022 at 09:29 am
"Totally agree Ojabo is going to be an All Pro. His video is outstanding and would love the Packers to take a chance on him. "
To quote the famous line from 'Risky Business' on guys like OJabo or Jameson Williams: "Sometimes you gotta say "What the Fuck", make your move. Joel, every now and then, saying "What the Fuck", brings freedom. Freedom brings opportunity, opportunity makes your future."
LambeauPlain
April 27, 2022 at 10:04 am
Well, that's an interesting take. Draft Williams at 22 and Ojabo at 28. We can call it the Dobber "WTF" draft!
WTF can also bring dead ends, dead ends destroy opportunities, and lack of opportunities also makes your future.
stockholder
April 27, 2022 at 11:54 am
I finally agree. Unbelievable.
LambeauPlain
April 27, 2022 at 01:42 pm
I almost miss your usual down vote for every comment I post!
stockholder
April 28, 2022 at 07:08 am
You and others must hate it when I'm right.--- Nobodys perfect. My grammar has gotten better. It's not a cross word puzzle.
LambeauPlain
April 27, 2022 at 09:31 am
If Ojabo and Logan Hall are both available at say, 53, who do you take?
I take Hall easily. One...he will be ready to play to start the season. Two he would play a lot as a Z Smith replacement. He can stand up and rush from the DL with his hand down.
I like Ojabo...in the 4th round as a gamble. There is a reason it has been called an "Achilles Heel" since ancient times. They "heal" unpredictably...and can be long term chronic issues.
I am just not in favor of drafting injured players.
dobber
April 27, 2022 at 09:35 am
I tend to agree on drafting injured players. I think Ron Wolf said something along the lines of "players you draft hurt tend to stay hurt."
I'm seeing 28 more and more as found money. I think if there's a guy who rates off the charts at that stage, but has a recoverable injury--and achilles has started to fall into that ACL range of more inconvenient than career threatening--maybe you take that gamble.
I think that has a lot to do with who you get at 22.
murf7777
April 27, 2022 at 11:50 am
We'll if Gutey went with that theory he wouldn't have drafted Gary as he had a labral tear in the shoulder.
LambeauPlain
April 27, 2022 at 01:50 pm
That Gary minor injury was more of a let it heal...no surgery required. And it healed fine. The Packer medical team is more cautious than a dog approaching a camp fire.
murf7777
April 27, 2022 at 03:47 pm
So, why did many on this board make a big deal out of it when he was drafted! Easy to say in hindsight.
stockholder
April 27, 2022 at 12:01 pm
I expect Gute to be blocked out. Which is why I'm for reaching this draft. Keeping that in Mind. TT had problems, and Reached for Randall. The top 50 guys can go rd. 1. Based on Randall. And in the Love draft. The Top WRs never fell below 50. They won't this draft.
Jones is rated higher. But He is a NT. And being he's #5 on the DT list. A lot of mocks say he should make it to the packers.
Austin is rated 90-100 on most boards. The problem is he's small. And will have to be put in motion. Good players do go high.
jannesbjornson
April 27, 2022 at 01:44 pm
Hall meets Montgomery's preference for a move guy on passing downs. Slaton takes the backup NT spot; otherwise Jones runs to the front of the line. I like Hall over Winfrey. Wyatt is a guy in constant motion, reminded me of Sapp. Probably goes in the first.
murf7777
April 27, 2022 at 12:25 pm
For all you Watson lovers, B/R just came out with their top 300 and put Watson at 97. This comes from 5 guys who they brought together with years of experience evaluating talent. He's a hard pass for me and I believe he will be for the Packers as well. Going to take too much time to develop.
Stockholder, I like your James Cook, Pickens, Raimann and Travis Jones picks!
dobber
April 27, 2022 at 02:15 pm
It's all value and price point.
I think the Packers will get a shot at him with their 2nd #2, if they want him.
Coldworld
April 27, 2022 at 02:26 pm
That’s the earliest I would consider either him or Velus. Velus doesn’t have the upside but he fixes our return game now.
murf7777
April 27, 2022 at 03:50 pm
I agree with your thoughts dobber. My one concern thou is if there is a run on WR's like what happened two years ago. That run lasted till the Packers drafted in round 2. If that happens and the Packers stay put in round 1 without a WR, I think Gutey will trade up in round 2 and get his WR.
PhantomII
April 27, 2022 at 09:25 pm
Watsons athleticism was comparable to Megatron. I see a guy on a run first team that already blocks well, is a smooth runner who has pretty good vision and makes the cuts at full speed or even hurdles guys in his way for >
YAC. He's does not have the route tree from a pass first team. He has ST experience and backfield work. He may be raw but the upside I can see as well as all the other I stated. Put me down as I told you so and the 5 other NFL draft raters. We have all been watching ball for 40-50 years minimum on average and he passes my eye test for high potential. He seems to want it also. I'm in 0n Watson....Way more than MVS.
stockholder
April 28, 2022 at 07:20 am
Kiper has been doing this for years. He wouldn't have put him up there if he wasn't a talent. You're following a value chart. Jennings came from a small school too/. The knock on Watson is ROUTE Running. The Tarzan- Jane claim. Both false if you watch his tape. He's top 50 on most sites.
SpikeHyzer
April 27, 2022 at 02:55 pm
I love everything about this mock, except that I wouldn't draft a QB or RB and would instead used those picks on EDGEs (maybe even package them to move up for an EDGE).
You took 2 position of no need, and failed to address what will be a very serious need next year (probably).
And we could use a 3rd depth piece at EDGE to back up our primary guys this year and develop for the future.
jannesbjornson
April 27, 2022 at 03:21 pm
The top Edge guys will be off the board by number 12. Why move up for the rest of the pack when they can be snagged rds 2-4 ? Tipa still has the speed rush when they need it. There are free agent veterans who know the position to fill the# 3 in the rotation.
SpikeHyzer
April 28, 2022 at 05:01 pm
I keep seeing 3 or 4 in the top 20, so I say move up at all costs to get one of those elite guys.
The 3rd position isn't as big an issue as Preston being gone or declining next year (or even this year, though I doubt it) and Gary becoming expensive next year.
With this much EDGE talent and it being a top 3 position of importance, It's a must if Gutey uses both 1st round picks (rumor has it he is trying to move up). And the best WR that fits our scheme and RAS parameters. That guy is probably better at the #3 than Tipa or any vet in that role around the league.
ReaganRulz
April 27, 2022 at 06:55 am
Nice play on words!! And like the balance of your picks. Not sure of who will be available, but walking away with 2 promising WRs, along with help on the defensive and offensive lines……and special teams!! I would rest comfortably in my hamMOCK if this comes true!!
NickPerry
April 27, 2022 at 07:04 am
Not a bad mock draft at all Al... IF this was to happen I don't think you could be anything other than happy as hell as a Packers fan. I know there's several who don't care much for Olave at 22 but I'm not one of them. He's a polished route runner who could come in and help the Packers THIS year.
I'm okay with Ebiketie and I agree 100% with Al...The Packers NEED a high effort speed rusher. Nick Bonitto of Oklahoma is another but I think you could get him later in the 2nd. IF Dax Hill was sitting there at 28 I think that would be hard to pass on. You have an instant slot defender and a 3rd Safety.
Watson is the HIGH ceiling guy who could develop into something REALLY special. While the developing is happening throw him some of those quick hitting passes, get the ball in his hands, and let him go to work. Hmmmm a WR who catches everything in Olave, and a WR who is special with the ball in his hands? Sign me up...
In about 38 hours I'm going to pacing in my living room as the Packers are preparing to make their pick at 22 (unless Gute trades up). I can't remember a draft I was so hyped for. Maybe it's because if the Packers are to win another SB with AR12, what happens Thursday, Friday, and Saturday will go a long ways helping the Packers accomplish that.
GO PACK GO!!
Coldworld
April 27, 2022 at 07:30 am
I actually like Ebiketie. I think Al has a good point on the need to have variety in the rush attack, especially once the player is comfortable enough to be moved around. Much more of a headache for defensive coordinators if they have to plan for that varied rush and unpredictable usage.
This comes with a caveat though. I think we might have a 4th player who we can use to hold the edge in Garvin: that depth will be needed. If we don’t think Garvin can handle that then we might find Ebiketie an invitation to run on. He’s not going to be an every down type and injuries happen as well as the need to spell Gary and Smith. Is Garvin good enough to open the door to this pick and could this pick still be made in the second?
murf7777
April 27, 2022 at 07:59 am
I agree Al & CW…..I thought the same thing for a while now, let’s go get a guy who can be really flexible and bend around the corner, neither Gary or Smith is that type of rusher. I’d hate to have another Matthews:). All he did was make one of the biggest plays in the SB and took Pittsburgh momentum away at a crucial point of the game. It is time, it is time…..spill it Pickett. Never, ever will I forget that play.
You need to have different styles of rushing so you can attack and OT’s weakness.
LambeauPlain
April 27, 2022 at 09:58 am
Agree, Murf. Coach Reb says he wants 4 solid Edge rushers to mix and match. And as you point out, different styles of play to collapse the pocket, create pressures/hurries/sacks and showing a solid edge during a rush, makes the opposing team miss sleep prior to the game.
An "air bender" on the Edge to go with the speed and power of Gary and Smith makes sense to me.
murf7777
April 27, 2022 at 03:52 pm
Hey, we finally agree on something.....lol
ReaganRulz
April 27, 2022 at 08:15 am
Totally agree on the diversity of skills. We need the same thing at WR. We have a bunch of tall dudes and need that reliable and skilled speed guy in the slot for a change.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
April 27, 2022 at 09:08 am
Nick,
I will be pacing the floor with ya!
PackEyedOptimist
April 27, 2022 at 07:07 am
I'm one of the not-a-fan-of-Ebiketie folks. Offenses will just run at him all day, which is the problem with almost all edge-benders. Give me an edge-holder and interior pass rush.
I can't believe Watson will last to 53.
Olave is a big question mark to me. Can he survive NFL CBs and Ss? Nobody avoids contact in the NFL.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
April 27, 2022 at 09:12 am
My Edge after Ojabo is Bonitto! Would love to have Bonitto. Watching video he is something special and have read some scouts comments and very favorable.
murf7777
April 27, 2022 at 07:42 am
Tomorrow night expect the unexpected. Last year, Gutey took Stokes in the first round. The consensus Mock draft compiled by The Huddle showed him going at pick 53. That consensus was an accumulation of 15 different mock drafts. 3 years ago Gary was rated as #20 pick and Savage at pick #44.
Another interesting take from that consensus is normally Gutey takes a player with a 15+ variation from the lowest to the highest mock pick. The one time where the consensus was low variation of 6 was in 2018 Josh Jackson was rated at #12 and Gutey drafted him as he dropped lower in the first round and of course he was a bust.
What that tells me is Gutey trusts his scouting department to do their job and ignore what mocks tell him. So, unless Gutey trades up, don’t be surprised if the pick(s) Gutey takes in the first round is mocked in the second.
In Gutey I trust.
LambeauPlain
April 27, 2022 at 07:54 am
Draft guru's have opinions. Opinions are not facts. This year, I think "opinions" are less informed that ever, given covid and the lack of on field play and video to reinforce or discount prospect choices.
This year, more that other years, will be even more definitive 3-4 years in the future. There will be many "hits" no one expected, and the same with "misses".
May the best personnel teams win!
dobber
April 27, 2022 at 09:31 am
Yup. Consensus boards don't look at individual teams and what types of players fit their systems and what they need.
LambeauPlain
April 27, 2022 at 10:34 am
Yep. Totally agree and your post defines why drafting is so difficult.
Georgia D prospects will be over-drafted due to the amazing synergies those players brought to the field playing together. However, those Bulldog prospects did produce on the field and earned high RAS too. The challenge is for Team Gutey to envision their respective fits for Barry's D.
If it was easy, even the Lions would be winners.
murf7777
April 27, 2022 at 01:51 pm
Lambeau, that's a very good point about Georgia D prospects. I've thought about that and it has to taken into consideration. Happy I'm not in the war room trying to make these decisions!
PackEyedOptimist
April 27, 2022 at 07:54 am
Big AGREE.
dobber
April 27, 2022 at 09:49 am
"Tomorrow night expect the unexpected. "
I'm expecting that QBs and WRs will linger longer than we usually see. That pushes DL, edge, and OL up the board. We'll see what's left at 22. Two weeks ago, I felt it was a real possibility that BG would move up...I'm feeling now that it's almost a certainty. I don't want him to, but I think he's got his eye on an edge or maybe an OT and won't want that guy to disappear.
LambeauPlain
April 27, 2022 at 10:21 am
Protect the passer and rush the opponent's passer into pressures, hurries, sacks and INTs.
OL and front 7 are very predictive of team success in my view. Taking a WR in the first will break with Packer GM tradition. So would drafting an ILB early.
murf7777
April 27, 2022 at 11:55 am
Dobber, I'm supportive of moving up, we have the draft capital and if you can get a guy who really contributes in year one, I'm all for it. I understand the theory of more chances at the bat gives you better odds, but I'm not so sure about that either. I like the idea of trading up and then back if you can find the suitors, that way you are satisfying both theories.
Ya_tittle
April 27, 2022 at 03:51 pm
I recall that many draft experts said Stokes was taken too early.
Doubt they'd say that now.
greengold
April 27, 2022 at 07:54 am
I see your mock, Al, and I’ll raise you THIS, brought to you by the word, TOUGHNESS:
**********
22 WR George Pickens
28 DT Travis Jones
53 EDGE Sam Williams
59 WR Velus Jones Jr.
93 WR Erik Ezukanma
132 OT/C Zach Tom
140 TE Chig Okonkwo
171 S Bubba Bolden
228 OT Cordell Volson
249 OT Bam Olaseni
258 EDGE Ali Fayad
Pickens, to me, is too good to pass up, and he’s ranked higher than Burks by Athlon, who I trust. IMO, he may be the only bona fide #1WR walking into this draft. His toughness exemplified by coming back from his Spring ACL to compete at the end of the year. The thing I’m troubled by with Burks is his heavy reception totals behind the LOS on screens. Over the top usage there. Pickens being the better route runner and more diverse, Pro-ready WR talent gets the nod for me.
Adding both VJJ and EZ will help lessen Pickens’ use as he gets back up to speed. Both are TOP #1-2 in After Catch Production = JET.
Chig, his positives are through the roof in being the best blocker coming into this draft in his class, the fastest TE in his class, and more of a pristine perfect, TOUGH receiver/JET facilitator, than that conventional TE we’ve known as a coveted prototype. I don’t care that we have Deguara. He’s not Chig. Having both? HELLS to the YES!
**** I want to see these JET concepts working, non-stop, and not dependent upon just one or two players (blocker/runner). The above additions of VJJ, EZ, Chig insures a steady stream of talent to employ these JET concepts the way LaFleur originally intended. (Side note: Olave, being useless in JET, would inhibit this, where VJJ-EZ-Chig make them GO!)
**** One other note on VJJ: I believe him to be the next best #1WR candidate in this draft class behind Pickens. He’s effective from anywhere, slot, split, flanker, and can take the top off of ANY defense in the NFL. Proven effectiveness in Power 5 programs. Might need to take him higher. Not a joke.
Bolden a perfect Day 3 add at S. He’s the kind of Safety I think we’ve been looking for in GB for years. Size, length, speed, ballhawk.
OTs Volson and Olaseni would be absolute steals this late. Both insanely effective players with mean streaks... Perfect additions to develop for our future. Added to Zach Tom, and the versatility he provides? Consider OL Room transformation complete.
Ali Fayad? From my notes: Advanced ability & know how. Baits OTs. Every down he has a plan, and a VARIETY of moves to get QB. Spin, swim, chop, ghost. Needs strength, technique. Steal end R7.
Packers can add RB and OG in UDFA, along with another K, CB to fill things out.
My work is done here. Cheers to YOU!: A huge THANK YOU to all of you here at CHTV. You’ve made this process fun and informative. Nice work, folks! I have a huge appreciation for all of your efforts.
MarkinMadison
April 27, 2022 at 07:39 am
Seems really high for VJJ.
greengold
April 27, 2022 at 05:35 pm
Of course it does, to EVERYBODY but the Packers (hopefully), the Eagles, the Chiefs, the Titans… and more. The 49ers are in on him too as Deebo’s replacement, having Jones in to visit this past week.
Watch his film, look at his stats, read his history and you’ll know. He’s the path less chosen.
Thanks, Mark! I’m glad you mentioned that. These are my last words on this perfect gem of a player for the Packers.
Sometimes you just have to go grab the ring.
Coldworld
April 27, 2022 at 11:16 am
I like the first four picks a lot. Velus is probably over drafted as a receiver but our need at returner gets me OK with that: he makes us better from day one. More than any other player I see in this draft he represents a step change in capability over last year. On O he’s just as capable of stretching the field on go routes as Watson and has better catching technique.
I know you love Chig, but he’s essentially a Deguara without the blocking. Too small to be a conventional TE and more of a pure receiver than Deguara. I just can’t see him hitting the field. How does one use a player like that who isn’t a threat to block? I’d go with Woods as a blocker with upside or Bellinger as Al suggests if we are going mid rounds (and I would look at TE there).
I am not a fan of Ezukanma. A big possession guy who plays mostly in the slot. I think we can do better. Personally, I’d be looking to take a S earlier than you do. Al’s pick Cross if he’s still there or Dane Belton would seem a good fit.
At WR, I’d prefer a guy like Thornton later but he’s perhaps too similar to those already picked. Perhaps Shakil, Connor or a later pick of Dai'Jean Dixon. Dixon didn’t test like his film, but I’m much more willing to take a gamble on day three than in round one. He’s got great hands, bigger body and is a great vertical leaper. Would give us another option with some positional flexibility much cheaper.
I’d take one less OL late in favor of a big body athlete like DerekeYoung who has played on all ST units and would be a great compliment to the Velus pick as a gunner. He’s also carried the ball out of the backfield a lot, so could offer some interesting role options. A better catcher than Watson, 225 Lb. Bench Reps: 22 ; Vertical Jump: 37 ; Broad Jump: 11'03" ; 20 Yrd Shuttle: 4.19 ; 3-Cone Drill: 6.88 40 Time Range: 4.43-4.45.
This draft is an odd one. There are drafts left players in what would be rounds 8 and 9 thanks to COVID. Late picks shouldn’t be throwaways. Targeted depth and ST help is available late. Boring as it is, we need a LS. Will Gute pull one from the ether? Not impossible that he will late on or in UDFA.
It’s been fun, but I’m more than ready to be talking about who we have (and have not) picked now.
Post script: it’s been pointed out that I’m being too hard on Chig as a blocker. In the sense of a H Back candidate that is true. In the sense of a true TE, which was in my mind when writing, I stand by the above. He’s another Deguara and I don’t think that helps us at TE.
greengold
April 27, 2022 at 09:06 am
True on Chig. Somewhere along the line I got things mixed up with his blocking… as a matter of fact, didn’t write a single note on him, which shocks me. However, I really was looking at him more as a tough receiver target. I like him better than Burks in this regard. Sorry about the confusion… I jammed a ton of study on a lot of players in a short time. I think it was love at first sight when I watched his film, searching out the TOUGH receiving talents.
I do like what I’ve seen from Dereke Young a lot too. Appreciate the heads-up on him, Coldworld.
greengold
April 27, 2022 at 09:46 am
As for EZ, it’s the extreme toughness and YAC, YAContact and MTF that makes him ANOTHER perfect JET.
This whole JET concept thing that we’ve never gotten off the ground? It’s because Deguara’s got hurt. Austin got hurt… POOF! GONE!! Can ‘t run those anymore!
Now, I’ll give you there might be better options there at S, and Bryan Cook would be my pick over Cross, as Cook plays both run/pass effectively. Add to this, I’d forgotten Amari Rodgers could be that 2nd WR JET option behind VJJ. Wouldn’t mind adding Cook there for S help -or - Zyon McCollum at CB might prove to be a better add, with Bubba added later for S help.
All this stuff turns fluid once we’re in it. KC wants VJJ badly to replace Tyreke Hill. I think he’s a player worthy of taking off the board to GB, if they want a mature, do it all WR, at #28, in front of KC’s 29 & 30 selections. Jones Jr. can stretch the field as well as or better than Watson with his 4.31 speed, and 75% Catch%. Watson is just not in the same class.
In that case, instead of Travis Jones 28, I’d take my chances on him at 53/59, both of which are highly unlikely, or I’d try to land DT Neil Ferrell Jr. R3. NT Noah Ellis a good Plan C in R7. Both players offer the run stop we need, freeing Kenny Clark to work 3-Tech.
Coldworld
April 27, 2022 at 10:15 am
There’s also Thornton as a deep threat with extreme speed and explosion that could develop beyond that with time. He likely goes mid round. He’s an option if we miss on speedster early. Velus is a better option for us now in my opinion l simply because he makes our STs better immediately through being a genuine dual returner. I think he’s the best candidate in this draft to be a premium returner who can offer something on offense as well. Age doesn’t bother me because of the ST help now.
murf7777
April 27, 2022 at 12:05 pm
CW, I think VJJ is a big risk at round 2 or 3. His age and lack of experience running routes is a big concern. I'd be surprised if they drafted him there. Now, if he is there late in the 4th round go get'em. There are many speedsters in this draft that will be drafted 4th round and later.
Now, give me James Cook in the 3rd and I'd be excited. Probably, the best pass catching RB in the draft and gives us a real 3rd down threat that defenses have to prepare for. Also, very good pedigree.
greengold
April 27, 2022 at 05:38 pm
Believe me, I love him. Tyquan should be a Packer next week if at all possible.
dobber
April 27, 2022 at 09:45 am
"Velus is probably over drafted as a receiver but our need at returner gets me OK with that"
I think he's a day 3 guy. Unrefined route runner, older rookie, redundant piece relative to the guys already in place. I'm not throwing a 2nd at a return specialist.
"It’s been fun, but I’m more than ready to be talking about who we have (and have not) picked now."
And how!
greengold
April 27, 2022 at 09:53 am
Trojan Alum Keyshawn Johnson disagrees, and so do I. He’s only “Day 3“ because the draft industry puts him there repeatedly, not because of route running, which he’s quite good at. He’s not limited. Yes, he’s older, providing more maturity & readiness at this level. I could care less about his age with all the pluses as a WR - forget about his supreme ST offerings.
I am done defending this pick. I feel so strongly, I’d take him 22. No problem. You simply cannot watch his tape and say: “Day 3.”
Coldworld
April 27, 2022 at 11:40 am
He was the most impressive WR at the senior bowl if anyone wants to look further.
blondy45
April 27, 2022 at 11:02 pm
I am not a Velus Jones fan, not before round 5 for me. Special teams cost us, I agree last year, but drafting a primarily special team player who will not be a blocker and will be a limited value on Special teams. Give me Jalen Tolbert round 2 if the WR run occurs. I also do not like Karloftis for a 1st round Edge. Give me Ebiketie, like the astute Al has pointed out in this article. We need a bender, not a clone of Gary and Smith. If Safety Lewis Cine drops to the Pack in the 1st, I would love it. Run to sign him up! Burks or Pickens in the first for me at WR, unless someone unexpectedly drops from the WR pool. One more night of dreaming of Jordan Davis...sigh.
Coldworld
April 27, 2022 at 10:25 am
I think he can be MVS as well as anyone. He has good hands too and, without doubt, I’m willing to pay a premium because he is good enough in returns to radically upgrade a part of our game that has been a liability for far too long. To me that’s worth the late second when taken together. We must give RB material.
LambeauPlain
April 27, 2022 at 10:44 am
Christian Watson can do what he does with much greater proficiency due to actual production.
Over draft VJJ for his return skills but not Watson who also is a proven receiver?
Coldworld
April 27, 2022 at 11:21 am
I really just disagree with that, and I’ve been focused on Watson for a long time. Hard to chide for over drafting Velus at the end of the second and support taking Watson at 22 or 28.
It’s a question of degree and Velus is a more polished receiver and proven returner in my opinion. I’m not addressing the future because now counts and I think Velus helps from the moment he is picked in both phases.
LambeauPlain
April 27, 2022 at 02:08 pm
"I think Velus helps from the moment he is picked in both phases"...as #53 or #59 vs Watson at #28? Watson is not a proven returner? Come on, now. And Velus is a more polished receiver? That escapes me. I will predict Watson is drafted before VJJ, who could drop to day 3. Watson will not, IMO.
I just disagree with you on Watson. Can't coach size, speed, football intelligence, on field production and blocking desire. Watson has all 5.
Coldworld
April 27, 2022 at 04:35 pm
Watson had potential for all those reasons. Then again so does Dareke Young. Young runs a 4.43 40 and is heavier, just as dynamic and a more natural catcher. Both went to small schools and were physically men among boys. Young will go on day 3 while Watson may go in the first.
In January both were 6th or 7th rounders. They both have huge potential, but Watson wowed at the combine and Young didn’t get an invite. That should be a caution. Watson didn’t get that much better athletically and nor did his film. Young is where both were based on their play in context and where raw potential should be. Watson is in orbit.
BirdDogUni
April 27, 2022 at 05:40 pm
It wouldn't surprise me a bit if Gutey were to draft Young, or bring him in as a Priority FA.
greengold
April 27, 2022 at 05:24 pm
Escapes you?
How about 62 receptions vs. powers 5, SEC teams? Watkins has 43? Against Division II? Watson had 62 receptions total in the last two years…
Albany W 28-6
Valparaiso W 64-0
Towson W 35-7
North Dakota W 16-10
Northern Iowa W 34-20
Illinois State W 20-0
Missouri State W 27-20
Indiana State W 44-2
SDSU L 19-27
Youngstown State W 49-17
South Dakota W 52-24
Southern Illinois W 38-7
East Tennessee W 27-3
James Madison W 20-14
Montana State W 38-10
Whatever the F Towson is… NDSU killed ‘em!
Can’t coach speed? Jones’ 4.31 is faster than Watson’s 4.36..? No?
Jones also catches 75% of his targeted passes.
Both Jones’ YAC & Missed Tackles Forced are more than Watson’s.
Watson has 635 return yards in 3 years. Jones has 2,965 return yards. It’s not even close.
C’mon…
BirdDogUni
April 27, 2022 at 05:38 pm
Bruh... Why can't we have both? Two totally different types of WRs... Lets see what Gutey does, we may end up with both these guys.
Us arguing on Wednesday won't change Thursday, Friday, or Saturday's picks. ; )
Tbh... I want them both, but Watson fits the mold of a Packers WR.
greengold
April 27, 2022 at 05:46 pm
What’s being said simply is not true, as I pointed out. I have a problem with that.
I don’t want the Packers taking a 3 year long project. I see limited returns this year with Christian Watson.
I’m sorry. No thanks. The Watson lovers here feel differently, but, you can’t go making shit up.
Handsback
April 27, 2022 at 09:53 am
Coldworld, I think you have some bad data...
Below is what Tony Pauline said about Chig. The more I read about him, the more it looks like a Packer pick.
"When we talk about Okonkwo’s operational strengths, we have to start with his blocking ability. The Maryland TE is, bar none, one of the better tight ends in the class at blocking. He’s fundamentally sound, with a good base and solid leverage. He stands tall in pass protection but is aggressive as a run blocker. He’ll shoot his hands and attack the torso, and he can capitalize on imbalanced opponents, driving them into the dirt.
Going further, Okonkwo can play as a lead blocker out of the backfield, and he understands and processes blocking angles effectively. The Maryland TE can quickly pop defenders and stack blocks when faced with 2-on-1’s. Unsurprisingly, that physicality translates to other parts of Okonkwo’s game. Especially after the catch, he’s willing to lower his shoulder and finish plays forward.
As a route runner and receiver, Okonkwo also shows promise. He has some suddenness running routes and can sink his hips and chop his feet quickly at the stem. Moreover, the Maryland TE has shown he can use quick head fakes ahead of his stems, and he can accelerate swiftly out of his breaks.
Moving onward, Okonkwo flashes the awareness to sit in open zones. At the catch point, he’s shown he can actively seek out the ball with his hands, most often in the short range. And he also flashes the toughness to haul in passes amidst contact."
greengold
April 27, 2022 at 09:55 am
I thought I read that, Handsback. Thx! That’s one of my go-tos for sure. Tony knows his stuff.
Coldworld
April 27, 2022 at 11:12 am
Read carefully, he’s really suggesting that Chig is an H Back who is a good blocker for his size, mostly as a lead blocker. He is very similar to Deguara physically. He’s much higher than others in Chig’s blocking prowess and his review has a seeming inconsistency: he his supposedly blessed with a low center of gravity and yet high cut.
In summary, Chig at 238 is not likely to be a force as a blocker in a conventional TE sense. As Pauline notes “he lacks elite strength, which shows up against defensive ends at times. He occasionally gets grabby against larger players, and he can be inconsistent in maintaining his anchor.” In the NFL, everyone is larger. Chig would be interesting as a H back, but our need is a TE who can both catch and in line block to some extent in my book. Interesting piece, but not as a TE, and thus I don’t see him getting playing time as a TE or filling that hole.
So on reflection a tad harsh earlier, I was ignoring the H back tile and thinking conventional TE. In the latter context I stand firm by my statements. The reasoning is also why I don’t support the idea that Deguara is our next TE. He’s a different type of player for a different role. One I hope we see more of when we get a replacement TE to fill the Sternberger void.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
April 27, 2022 at 09:23 am
GG,
Always love the supporting information backing up your thoughts. I too have come to the conclusion Pickens is the guy and he would need to be drafted in round 1. Whether someone takes him right before #22, or if he is still available at either 22 or 28, but unlikely to last into 2nd round. Too risky even if Gutey moved up high in round 2 if he's the guy! I have noticed your constant love these past weeks in VJJ. I like him too! Very good ST's Returner as well. Pickens and VJJ would be a great WR haul.
stockholder
April 27, 2022 at 11:41 am
Nice draft; but Pickens is too much of a gamble @22. The injuries with production say he'll be lucky to make @28. To Be a #1 Wr. The packers must make sure he can stay on the field. Nobody has him that high. Nobody.
LLCHESTY
April 27, 2022 at 06:13 pm
How is Pickens more diverse? 67% of his routes run were either Gos or Hitches, his next highest route was 7%. Burks was more diverse than that.
greengold
April 27, 2022 at 07:22 pm
Pickens
Huge matchup problem vs slant & fade. Easily gains leverage in man/ press. Good route runner with the skill set to run the entire route tree.
Ideally best suited outside or off the line. Able to adjust route depending on down/distance.
Outstanding ball skills. Natural hands catcher who regularly catches ball away from his frame. Shows strong mitts to pluck away in contested catch situations. Extremely competitive at the catch point.
Vertical deep speed to take the top off a defense. Ridiculous catch radius.
Smooth off the press, great swat, long arms to separate, explodes into breaks. Route running excels at 2nd level. Shows strength/speed to explode out of contact for YAC. Never loses momentum on deep balls while tracking.
Supremely gifted. Fluid and explosive. Always maintains control through routes. Savvy. Balanced. Top field awareness & concentration. Sets up and sells routes beautifully. Full route tree. Dynamic stiff arm. Willing and able to go over middle with no fear.
4.47 straight line speed to exploit open seems. Sideline, crossing routes, over middle.
Randy Moss level contested catch beast in red zone.
——
Good luck finding that on Burks. BTW, Burks is somehow awful at contested catches…
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
April 28, 2022 at 04:38 pm
Holy Hanna GG!
Love your research and writing style! :)
jannesbjornson
April 27, 2022 at 07:15 am
A Mock after mine own heart, Al. Lucas may have to be the #53 ,or higher and Watson the #28, but the group of seven hit the mark.
beerandbrats
April 27, 2022 at 07:22 am
I like the picks Al! The Packers would be fortunate to end up with this draft haul. Let's hope the draft plays out favorably for the green and gold! Go Pack!
Spock
April 27, 2022 at 07:25 am
Al, as a non-draftnik appreciate the short synopsis on each player. Like all mocks is is more of a "wish list" than reality, but looks fine to me. Can't wait to see who the Packers -actually- draft!
MarkinMadison
April 27, 2022 at 07:33 am
I've picked most of those names in my mock draft simulations. Lucas, and Waletzko are the OTs I pick most often. There are so many great safeties that Cross is often available lower than he should be. Ebiketie is often the best option at Edge for me. Bellinger is often a pick where I need a TE and haven't gotten to the position until later in the draft. Zach Tom screams "Packer OL" to me.
I usually end up with Wyatt, Olave or trading back at 22. This spot is the most troublesome. I often end up with Linderbaum and Reimann sitting there as the best options that don't seem like a reach. To me, Linderbaum lacks versatility and Reimann is too much of a project. If the Packers go OL high in the draft they need an OT who can play right away if needed. There are several who are likely to be available in the 3rd and 4th rounds who can do that, even if their ceilings are lower.
I used to take Pickens a lot at 28. I still like him. I wonder if the medical or the attitude will drive the Packers away.
I don't think Watson will last into the 50s.
I think P. Mathis is very underrated at DT.
JerseyAl
April 27, 2022 at 07:41 am
Waletzko is my sleeper I really like in this OT group.
PeteK
April 27, 2022 at 08:25 am
Why did you change your Ojabo pick? I'm guessing you don't think he will last to 28.
JerseyAl
April 27, 2022 at 10:20 am
No. I just didn't want to repeat the Draft Guide mock, so changed a few things up.
BirdDogUni
April 27, 2022 at 10:40 am
With his blown Achilles, he's probably not even on the Packers board tbh.
Reghamster
April 28, 2022 at 06:35 pm
I like Waletzko and Lucas as 2 possible later OL line picks which is where I see the Packers looking .
Handsback
April 27, 2022 at 07:34 am
They lost a starting Oline guy and DE to FA an All-Pro to injury their #1 receiver was traded.
I'm not talking about the Packers but the Cowboys!
Sounds very similar right? Their draft spot is close to the Packers but GB's 1st and 2nd round picks are before them. They also want a WR but they have enough talent already so not a day one need.
The reason I'm posting this is because Dallas and GB will be after the same guys. Oline, pass rushers, safeties, CBs, Dline. The difference is GB will look at Wrs with a higher pick and Dallas will look at CB with a higher pick.
Don't be surprised if GB has drafted only 1 WR after 3 rounds but maybe 2 pass catchers.
This is a big boy draft with lots of good linemen and pass rushers, they can get get wideouts in all the rounds, but not the ground and pound dudes.
MarkinMadison
April 27, 2022 at 07:46 am
I see lots of good OL, TE and S throughout this draft. I see WRs and pass rushers that are more "pick your flavor." There are a limited number of well-rounded DLs available. So to me, grab a good DL if the opportunity is there, pick the WR and pass rusher that you really want in the first two rounds and fill-in at OL TE and S later.
MooPack
April 27, 2022 at 08:05 am
Don't forget KC. They are right behind the Packers looking for WR.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
April 27, 2022 at 09:26 am
I totally agree Moo!
The_Baloney_Stops_Here
April 27, 2022 at 07:31 pm
Chiefs already have Juju, Mecole Hardman, and MVS. I dont see them going receiver early. That team needs defense in a bad way.
Reghamster
April 28, 2022 at 06:45 pm
This is usually the case . Nothing about the WR corps this draft equals last year. No need to chase any of the top picks for WR in the 1st round . I fear some optics in displeasing Rodgers . But Rodgers would love a get so a Waller or McLaurin in a trade are options . It is interesting how Brady and Carr and other vet qbs wish for or laugh at possible trades. No good vet qb basically wants to have to spend time developing a wr . I think no one this year equals Chase , Jefferson etc. I may be wrong . The Packers with a solid D and a reliable OL should yield a potent run/ pass offense and a better almost top 5 D with a much improved ST that makes a Super bowl chance better. I am alone in mot caring about the Super Bowl . I just want us to get to the NFC championship and/ or the SB. We dont have to win for me to be satisfied . Just be competitive every year and get in the playoffs. Last year was ok except we really laid a turd in a game we should have won. I dont think we could have beat L. A. necessarily . Either way would have been fine . Winning the Super Bowl is overrated. We just want to be in the picture every year to watch a playoff game or two.
Reghamster
April 28, 2022 at 06:45 pm
This is usually the case . Nothing about the WR corps this draft equals last year. No need to chase any of the top picks for WR in the 1st round . I fear some optics in displeasing Rodgers . But Rodgers would love a get so a Waller or McLaurin in a trade are options . It is interesting how Brady and Carr and other vet qbs wish for or laugh at possible trades. No good vet qb basically wants to have to spend time developing a wr . I think no one this year equals Chase , Jefferson etc. I may be wrong . The Packers with a solid D and a reliable OL should yield a potent run/ pass offense and a better almost top 5 D with a much improved ST that makes a Super bowl chance better. I am alone in mot caring about the Super Bowl . I just want us to get to the NFC championship and/ or the SB. We dont have to win for me to be satisfied . Just be competitive every year and get in the playoffs. Last year was ok except we really laid a turd in a game we should have won. I dont think we could have beat L. A. necessarily . Either way would have been fine . Winning the Super Bowl is overrated. We just want to be in the picture every year to watch a playoff game or two.
Irish_Cheesehead
April 27, 2022 at 07:41 am
No offense to Al, but I’m so sick of seeing mock drafts. Can’t wait until Thursday night!
BirdDogUni
April 27, 2022 at 10:43 am
Here ya go... Just to get your Irish up... ; P
PFN
22. Devin Lloyd LB Utah 6' 2" 237lbs RAS: 9.58
28. Christian Watson WR North Dakota State 6' 4" 208lbs RAS: 9.96
53. Devonte Wyatt DT Georgia 6' 2" 304lbs RAS: 9.58
59. Myjai Sanders EDGE Cincinnati 6' 5" 258lbs RAS: 8.73
92. Abraham Lucas OT Washington State 6' 6" 315lbs RAS: 9.73
132. Charlie Kolar TE Iowa State 6' 6" 252lbs RAS: 9.11
140. Zyon McCollum CB Sam Houston State 6' 2" 199lbs RAS: 10
171. Pierre Strong Jr. RB South Dakota State 5' 11" 202lbs RAS: 9.34
228. Eyioma Uwazurike DT Iowa State 6' 6" 316lbs RAS: 6.51
249. Velus Jones Jr. WR Tennessee 5' 11" 204lbs RAS: 7.14
258. Tariq Carpenter S Georgia Tech 6' 2" 230lbs RAS: 8.91
LambeauPlain
April 27, 2022 at 11:18 am
Great haul! Well, until the 7th round where there was "no RAS, no RAS"!
jannesbjornson
April 27, 2022 at 02:04 pm
I like Carpenter as a cover LB/SS. His 4.49 speed is OK and a 39 verticle says he can cover the TEs. Sleeper along with Joey Blount from Virginia. The Meatpackers need a sp teams transfusion.
pantz_bURp
April 27, 2022 at 12:06 pm
"258. Tariq Carpenter S Georgia Tech 6' 2" 230lbs RAS: 8.91"
Nice B-Dog! I like the RAS and 230 lbs...ol' Carpenter will be laying the wood on some poor WR.
LambeauPlain
April 27, 2022 at 07:44 am
"Hush you Packer fans, don't say a word....Gutey's going to buy you some Mockingbirds. And if those Mockingbirds won't sing, he's going to buy you some 2023 traded QB bling!"
This is a good draft, Al! And I guarentee it will not unfold as you and I would prefer.
I think the Pack has met my first round preferences twice (kinda). Last year I was hoping Stokes would be the pick. "Big Red" just seemed to be the CB the Packers would love. Work ethic, student of the game, RAS and college production. The other was Rodgers, after he dropped below #10. He became my late round one after 10 and became a draft crush every pick after until Ted took him. Wow, that was my favorite draft ever!
What will happen in two days? Al's draft would have me singing "Mockingbird" in my head for days.
BirdDogUni
April 27, 2022 at 04:22 pm
So basically, "Hush little babies, don't say a word...? : P
Bure9620
April 27, 2022 at 08:05 am
I am with you on Abraham Lucas. He is the type of Tackle the Packers like, good athelticism. Gute has also leaned more toward offensive linemen that have started several years and have played a lot of football in college at power 5 schools. Josh Myers was a 4 year starter at "The" Ohio State, as was Elgton Jenkins at Mississippi State. Newman played a lot at Ole Miss too and Runyan started atleast 3 years at Michigan.
LambeauPlain
April 27, 2022 at 08:05 am
Yep...and versitility. Lucas checks all the boxes.
jannesbjornson
April 27, 2022 at 08:18 am
Put it this way, Kelly is talking to the Colts for a job. Solidify the RT. Since Bulaga parted ways the right flank has been on Red Alert, especially when it's crunch time in the Playoffs.
LambeauPlain
April 27, 2022 at 11:27 am
Turner played well at RT...almost as good as a healthy Bulaga. I am still confused how Steno, Hackett, and MLF believed moving him to LT, kept Yosh on the bench and watched Kelly get kicked around for 4 quarters was a good decision.
Ya_tittle
April 27, 2022 at 01:45 pm
SO TRUE!!!!!! The OL idiocy had as much to do with us losing the game as the foolishness on Special Teams.
jannesbjornson
April 27, 2022 at 05:01 pm
Yesterday is dead and gone...the Flashing Red Lights were on long before the 2021 season even kicked off...
Ya_tittle
April 27, 2022 at 01:45 pm
SO TRUE!!!!!! The OL idiocy had as much to do with us losing the game as the foolishness on Special Teams.
jannesbjornson
April 27, 2022 at 02:07 pm
Milt Hendrickson's department.
pantz_bURp
April 27, 2022 at 08:14 am
I dusted of the Ouija board, flossed the good tooth, wiped the sleep from my eyes and took an exaggerated sip of my luke warm coffee and this is what it told me (this is NOT what I want mind you, blame it on Hills Bros):
Packers move up and grab Kayvon Thibodeaux (DE from Oregon). That is my Mock Duck!
Go, go, goooo
PackEyedOptimist
April 27, 2022 at 08:18 am
Today' PEO draft brought to you by MockDraftDatabase simulator:
22 LB/S Nakobe Dean 3-down player upgrades Sullivan AND Barnes
29 WR Christian Watson Unlimited potential, WR3 this year and #1 next year
53 S Nick Cross "Cross and Savage" Who are two athletic safeties from Maryland with angry names?
59 LB/ED Leo Chenal All the BPAs were LBs at 59 Replaces Z
92 TE Trey McBride Pure Packer TE: blocks, catches, does his job every time
132 TE Jelani Woods The next Marcedes Lewis
140 OT Matt Waletzko Backs up Bakh letting Nijman go to RT
171 WR Erik Ezukanma Fast and physical, great ST potential
228 OL Nick Zakelj flexible backup at every OL
249 QB Cole Kelley Perfect developmental QB
258 C Nick Ford perfect size, played every position, PAC-12 top OL winner
MooPack
April 27, 2022 at 08:22 am
My Final:
22.S/slot CB Daxton Hill
28.WRx Christian Watson
53.RT Abraham Lucas
59.LB Troy Andersen
92.TE Ruckert, Woods, Kolar or trade for Waller.
132.G Zach Tom
140.EDGE Amaré Barno or DL Eyioma Uwazurike
171.WR Erik Ezukanma
228.EDGE Jeffrey Gunter
249.RB Tyler Goodson
258.WR Isaiah Weston
LambeauPlain
April 27, 2022 at 11:26 am
"Holy Cow", Moo!
My final draft is your final draft. That is a good draft.
I am 100% certain Gutey will not follow your recommendations.
MooPack
April 27, 2022 at 12:47 pm
Yes, I can guarantee that. My biggest fear is the number of teams that are going to be jumping up into the 2nd round where a lot of talent is. Jumping ahead for WR's, Edge's, and Tackles.
Coldworld
April 27, 2022 at 11:45 am
I do like Weston. Great value there. I’m not on the Watson first round bandwagon, but I’d be otherwise very happy with that draft and Watson could be very good down the road in my view.
LambeauPlain
April 27, 2022 at 02:29 pm
So, regarding Watson, your are telling me "there is still a chance." :-)
MooPack
April 27, 2022 at 02:43 pm
Mock! Yeah!
stockholder
April 27, 2022 at 05:10 pm
Yea - He likes him. That way he doesn't have to eat crow after the packers get him.
PeteK
April 27, 2022 at 08:31 am
A very good QB and O line can make a non top conference college WR like Watson look better. I hope he he lasts to 2nd round, and would give up a 4th to move up for him.
jannesbjornson
April 27, 2022 at 09:37 am
He will not get past KC. The Pack will need to bag him @ #22 or #28 . I have "Stockholder's Syndrome", play a risk-averse game and select him #22 to secure the guy.
Dragon5
April 27, 2022 at 08:30 am
Al I'm confident Packer Nation agrees with the majority of your WR perspectives; I was tickled to see Nick Cross make your cut...reminds me of Andre Cisco last year, but more assignment sure. I am, however, all in favor of trading out of round 1 completely, targeting numerous EARLY 2nds with capable partners such as DET, NYJ, SEA. Unless we trade up, I believe Olave will be gone at #22 as consistency in the eyes of any GM usually spins a premium grade, so I'm all for a tactical solution to a Pickens / Watson combo. Stickler is TEN's #26 & KC's 29/30...would they take either? I had two mocks, very similar to this one...the interchangeables were EDGE Ebiketie/Ojabo T/G Green/Lucas/Salyer and safeties Cross / Cook. However it turns out, my only wish is that Gute is pragmatic with draft capital; it is his achilles.
tinyurl.com/23ajudfa
Rarescope
April 27, 2022 at 11:45 am
No horoscope/Chinese zodiac based assessments? I've come to expect more from you...
Dragon5
April 27, 2022 at 04:53 pm
...and I more from my critics.
pantz_bURp
April 27, 2022 at 08:38 am
"Yes, this mockingbird is singing today"
Me?, you don't ask...I am going to Bill's Birds Nest (local oat soda purveyor) and drink with big SWALLOWs. :D
I keep seeing KG looking into Clay's eyes but saying to all of us at Packer Nation: "It is almost time!"
RIP KG
Dragon5
April 27, 2022 at 08:55 am
Must be the cold temps today=sticky fingers. Nothing like being 25 degrees below normal near Lake Michigan Springtime. I recall having a duplicate once or twice, never frice! Sorry Al!
pantz_bURp
April 27, 2022 at 09:32 am
No worries D5...just busting your chops a bit. :D
Cold, I hear ya...had to chip loose 3 dogs frozen to the fire hydrant this mornng.
Have a good one D5!
BirdDogUni
April 27, 2022 at 10:46 am
Huh... It was 80 and sunny here yesterday... : P
pantz_bURp
April 27, 2022 at 11:57 am
Easy B-Dog...rubbing it in hey? Keep it up and you may get neutered and we change your name to Lucky. :D
BirdDogUni
April 27, 2022 at 04:25 pm
Wife neutered me a long time ago... ; )
Packers0808
April 27, 2022 at 08:42 am
And as usual, like the Big 10 Bracket none are right, but the speculation is fun to read. I don't make mocks, because I simply don't know enough about any college player seeing I never watch college ball! Most Fall Saturdays are too nice to be sitting inside, but Sunday Packers another story!
Since'61
April 27, 2022 at 08:48 am
No complaints Al if the Packers draft actually goes the way of your mock draft. It is an excellent mix of talent and needs for the Packers. Unfortunately, drafts rarely go as any of us expect them to go. It will be interesting to track the Packers actual selections against your mock. I appreciate all of your hard work in putting the draft guide and your mock draft together. Stay safe. Thanks, Since '61
HarryHodag
April 27, 2022 at 09:02 am
Two wide receivers to watch for the Packers Friday or Saturday: Velus Jones, Jr. and Danny Gray. They have good numbers in the kick return/punt return game. This draft also will be about upping the special teams.
Think back to last season/playoffs and what could have been different with outstanding special teams play.
BirdDogUni
April 27, 2022 at 04:28 pm
LLChesty = The President of the "Velus Jones Jr. Fan Club" has made us well aware...
Personally, as the defacto President of the "Danny Gray Fan Club" I find it disheartening that you feel you have to mention this...
: )
Johnblood27
April 27, 2022 at 05:46 pm
Can I get in as the Romeo Doubs fan club?
He is the one...
croatpackfan
April 27, 2022 at 09:17 am
Nice, Al. 2 days to find out who was right and who was wrong...
It will be interesting....
RCPackerFan
April 27, 2022 at 09:19 am
Who doesn't loved to be mocked.
(Keep in mind, this is more of a "what I would like to see happen", as opposed to a "guess what they will do" mock draft. )
There is a big difference in mocking what you want to happen vs what you think they want to do. I appreciate you telling us that this mock is more for what you want to see happening.
My thoughts on the picks and positions in general -
I think Olave would be a great pick. I just don't know if he will last until the Packers pick. If he is at 22, i am all over him. And I would love Watson. If they came away with Olave and Watson that would greatly change our WR position.
Pass rusher - I also agree they need a pass rusher like Ebiketie. They need someone that can bend around the corner with speed. Adding a speed option to go along with Gary and Smith's more power type of play would really help balance out the front. I would not be surprised if they took an OLB at pick 22 or 28. Actually I think its more likely to happen then it is for them to draft a WR with the first 2 picks.
OL - I think they will take 1 OL in the first 2 rounds. And I think they will take at least 1 more in the draft. I think one will be more of an OT prospect. And the other one will be able to play all 3 interior spots. Similar to what Patrick gave them. I think Gutey has learned from Thompson in that you always draft OL every year. Can never have enough.
S - I think safety will be a bit of a higher pick then most think. I believe both Savage and Amos are in their last years? I could be wrong on that part. But they could be looking to find their replacements.
CB, ILB - I think they will use a pick on each position. Gutey has drafted a CB in 3 of his 4 drafts. He has drafted a LB in all 4 drafts.
All I know is the Draft is less then 34 hours away. And I can't wait!
jannesbjornson
April 27, 2022 at 09:49 am
Al hit my marks for the WRs from High Picks, Two OTs, a TE and a DB. The Edge guy for me seems to butt up against a desire to get a DT/Five tech. I tend to lean toward Winfrey, Wyatt and Hall with a fall back option for EDGE going to a veteran free agent to be the #three guy. I have faith in Tipa coming on as a pass rusher on third down. Garvin should improve, he was 21 when drafted.
LambeauPlain
April 27, 2022 at 11:08 am
I really like Winfrey. He lives in opponent's backfields. His skills are very good...his motor is better. I made the mistake of watching his video...now, as Gollum would say, "I wants" him in GB.
He help would free up Kenny, Gary, and Preston so all can meet at the QB. He would instantly be in the rotation.
Another prospect I like is Logan Hall. Can play standing up or with his hand down...like Z did.
jannesbjornson
April 27, 2022 at 05:09 pm
They almost need to trade up and get three picks in the 1st round to secure these guys.
tincada
April 27, 2022 at 09:30 am
I love how Gute said for us the draft is the long haul not the short term fix. That's not the exact quote but close enough. LMAO! Here we go again, NFC N.....just maybe. Next more drama from the drama queen, AR. I really feel sorry for Love. GB has ruined his career.
LambeauPlain
April 27, 2022 at 11:15 am
"GB has ruined his career." That is a bit harsh. But I do have sympathy for him due to many fans calling him a bust...already.
Love is barely into his career with 2020 mostly a redshirt rookie year...and last year playing backup behind the MVP. He has 2 or 3 more years as a Packer. I will keep my powder dry until and unless he gets to play more than 6 quarters of NFL regular season football.
dobber
April 27, 2022 at 02:25 pm
""GB has ruined his career." That is a bit harsh. But I do have sympathy for him due to many fans calling him a bust...already."
Nobody gets more opportunities to stick than a QB taken in the first round.
TxPackFan
April 27, 2022 at 11:52 am
Speaking of receivers, I just don't see a big difference in between guys you can get in the late first round and guys you can get in the second...or third...or even fourth round. So why waste the higher pick on a guy who may...MAY...be marginally better than who you can get 2 rounds later? You have to wisely use your higher picks on positions where there is a big drop off in talent as the draft moves forward.
For instance, there is a significant drop of in Safety talent from the late-first/early-second to the third round and beyond. Same goes for edge rushers. Same goes for OTs...and DTs. Better to use your early picks on those positions where the drop off is significant than on a position where the drop off is negligible. I mean which would you rather have, a 4.8-star Safety, 4.6-star Tackle, 3.9-star Edge, and 4.2-star WR, OR a 4.3-star WR, 4.6-star Safety, 3.9-star Tackle, and 3.2-star Edge? The WR needle barely budged while all the others moved a lot. I would rather go with the first set because it make the whole team a lot better instead of one position a tiny bit better. I would rather end up with Karlaftis, Cine, Thomas, and Tolbert than Burks, Cine, Thomas, and Paschal. Because Tolbert is not that far off Burks (coin flip really) while Karlaftis is far and away better than Paschal.
I'll also note this about Edge guys. Yes, Preston Smith and Rashan Gary are very similar...as was Za'Darius Smith. It's almost like there's a type they look for.
MainePackFan
April 27, 2022 at 10:13 am
PFN
22. Devonte Wyatt
DT Georgia
28. Jahan Dotson
WR Penn State
53. George Pickens
WR Georgia
59. Troy Andersen
LB Montana State
92. Josh Paschal
EDGE Kentucky
132. Charlie Kolar
TE Iowa State
140. Zach Tom
OT Wake Forest
171. JoJo Domann
LB Nebraska
228. Tycen Anderson
S Toledo
249. Velus Jones Jr.
WR Tennessee
258. Tanner Conner
WR Idaho State
TxPackFan
April 27, 2022 at 10:54 am
I really do not like Wyatt's character issues. At least four domestic violence incidents? Not that anybody should have that many, but to have 4...when you're only 24??? That's 4 just in the 6 years since he turned 18!
He's not even on my board. And I doubt the Packers' either.
Coldworld
April 27, 2022 at 11:30 am
It wouldn’t surprise me if he’s not on the board, but I won’t convict him absent more evidence than hearsay. If he’s on then that this is a pretty good draft overall, with the exception of the WRs. Dotson is a waif physically. Rather like Olave that’s a concern in a round one pick. I don’t think Velus is there at that pick either. Since Dotson is a good punt returner, Velus would be redundant perhaps? They are both speedsters. I think Dotson is a second rounder.
MainePackFan
April 27, 2022 at 12:00 pm
The Pack brought Wyatt in for a reason. If he is available and they pass, we'll know they didn't like what they heard.
Olave was gone. Dotson is a reach but he won't be there at 53. I get that he isn't a big receiver, but he plays big, runs great routes, can be moved around, and best of all seems to have a knack of finding a way to help his QB when things break down.
Regarding Velus, I agree that it is redundant, but I see no problem with competition in the area of Kick off and punt returns.
MainePackFan
April 27, 2022 at 12:08 pm
FYI, I would have taken Pierce at 53, but he went at 51. I love that kid, and I truly hope he is a Packer :)
murf7777
April 27, 2022 at 01:57 pm
Ditto, people are sleeping on Pierce, he is my pick in the second round.
BirdDogUni
April 27, 2022 at 04:32 pm
I don't think anyone, especially Gutey is sleeping on Alex Pierce. I expect he and Watson are very close to the top of GBs WR board. Two great kids with very few red flags with size and speed. The scouting department has probably been in Gutey's ear for a couple of years with both these guys, not just the last two months.
Thegreatreynoldo
April 28, 2022 at 06:40 am
I don't believe there is an Alex Pierce in the top 300 prospects. 😈
LambeauPlain
April 27, 2022 at 02:36 pm
Based on past visits, it seems the Packers use them more to take guys off their board. One would think the Packers would use visits to solidify Board status. The last 4 drafts suggest the former.
Handsback
April 27, 2022 at 10:42 am
Because of the Packers strength at the CB position, wouldn't be surprised to see this guy selected in the 4th round by the Packers to develop for the future. Write up is from Bob McGinn's Go Long series.
Part 8, DB: Could Tariq Woolen change the cornerback game?
There's never been someone this fast, this big. Hear what scouts 'round the NFL have to say on Woolen, "Sauce" Gardner, Kyle Hamilton, Derek Stingley and all of the top defensive backs inside.
Bob McGinn
Apr 27
Today: Defensive backs.
For now, at least, Tariq Woolen of Texas San Antonio is a project. Of that there can be little disagreement.
Now comes the hard part for evaluators because they know, three years from now, it’s possible he will have become the NFL prototype at the cornerback position.
The size is there, the speed is there, the athleticism is there in numbers never before seen in a defensive back. No cornerback standing 6 feet 4 inches, as does Woolen, running 40 yards in 4.26 seconds, as did Woolen, and leaping 42 inches in the vertical jump, as did Woolen, has come before him.
UTSA, which didn’t christen its football program until 2011, has had two players drafted in its first decade. No general manager or scouting director planned to visit the Roadrunners last fall after Woolen received a reject spring grade from the BLESTO combine scout and the lowest possible spring grade before being rejected from the National Football Scouting rep.
At some point during the season, personnel people did make the journey to see the player nicknamed “Riq the Freak.”
“I told him I came all the way out to UTSA because you are the most unusual prospect in the country,” said an NFL personnel man. “Woolen is the ultimate length and speed prospect in this entire draft.”
My combine/pro day archives date to 1986. If Woolen goes in the first two rounds, which is certainly possible, he would become the first 6-4 corner drafted there in that span.
Last year, the Cowboys used a compensatory pick (No. 99) to take a third-round flier on cornerback Nahshon Wright (6-4, 183, 4.48) of Oregon State. He played special teams and 91 snaps on defense, but there’s little evidence yet that he can play.
At the same time, there have been only three 6-3 ½ (heights were rounded off to the nearest half inch) cornerbacks taken in the first three rounds since 1986.
In 2009, Utah’s Sean Smith (6-3 ½, 209, 4.50) went to the Dolphins in the second. Although Smith never made a Pro Bowl, he was rated as a top-10 corner by Pro Football Weekly entering the 2015 and ’16 seasons.
In 2019, Vanderbilt’s Joejuan Williams (6-3 ½, 207, 4.60) went to the Patriots in the second. He has started one game in three seasons.
In 2021, Minnesota’s Benjamin St-Juste (6-3 ½, 202, 4.58) went to Washington in the third. As a rookie, he started three of nine games.
When NFL scouts get together, they constantly compare players. Scouts always can come up with a comparable. With Woolen, there was mostly crickets.
“Don’t have one,” an AFC personnel director said regarding Woolen. “I’m not kidding. I don’t have one for you.”
The one player that was mentioned most was Brandon Browner (6-3 ½, 221, 4.64), who appeared at the combine in 2005 representing Oregon State but wasn’t drafted. After being cut by the Broncos in 2006, he was a CFL all-star in three of four seasons north of the border before signing with the Seahawks. A starter for three years on the “Legion of Boom” defense, he had 12 interceptions and 57 passes defensed in five NFL seasons.
Another scout came up with Lenny Walls (6-4, 192, 4.69), a free agent in 2002 from Boston College who started 16 games for the Broncos in 2003 and lasted five seasons.
In 2017, the Packers drafted Washington’s Kevin King (6-3, 198, 4.46) atop the second round. The only other corner that tall in the team’s previous 30 years was Michael Hawthorne (6-3, 196, 4.54) in 2003-’04.
Back when cornerbacks could mug receivers, size was critical. Witness the dimensions of Hall of Famers Dick “Night Train” Lane (6-2, 210), Jimmy Johnson (6-2, 187) and Mel Blount (6-3, 205) decades ago.
When the five-yard bump zone went into effect and receivers became smaller and faster, so did corners. In 1986, just one of the top 15 corners stood even 6-0. In 1995, Notre Dame’s Bobby Taylor (6-3, 208, 4.51) looked like a creature from Mars as the only one of the top 20 corners reaching the 6-0 barrier.
This year, seven of the top 10 corners are at least 6-0 as teams continue to seek bigger, faster players to cover bigger, faster receivers.
Enter Woolen, a wide receiver in high school and a wide receiver (24 receptions, 263 yards, 11.0-yard average, one touchdown) until late in his third year at UTSA. He reluctantly agreed, but now acknowledges he wouldn’t have been in this position without the change.
“No, sir, being in the NFL was just a dream at the time,” Woolen said at the combine. “I always had NFL in my dreams, but when you start to slowly come to reality, I really fell in love playing the position.”
Besides freak, the other operative word for Woolen among scouts is raw. Also often heard was “low floor, high ceiling,” meaning there’s star potential and bust potential.
“He’s not anywhere near ready,” an NFC evaluator said. “You’ve got to train him so much. At 6-4, you’re going to have transition issues. He’s not a second-round player. You’d have to justify taking him that high. You’d look funny taking a guy in the second and he’s your fourth corner. Not a good look.”
The Woolen story presumably will play out Friday night in rounds two and three. As many as 10 defensive backs might be selected before he becomes a factor.
A panel of 18 personnel people agreed to rank the cornerbacks and safeties on a 1-2-3-4-5 basis, with a first-place vote worth 5 points, a second-place vote worth 4 points and so on.
At corner, the vote was Ahmad “Sauce” Gardner (79 points, 10 firsts), Derek Stingley (68, six), Trent McDuffie (43), Kaiir Elam (29, two), Andrew Booth (19), Kyler Gordon (14), Roger McCreary (eight), Woolen (five), Kalon Barnes (three) and Alontae Taylor (two).
At safety, the vote was Kyle Hamilton (81, 14 firsts), Lewis Cine (66, three), Dax Hill (45), Jaquan Brisker (35), Jalen Pitre (21, one), Nick Cross (11), JT Woods (five), Bryan Cook (two), Kerby Joseph (two), Tycen Anderson (one) and Tariq Carpenter (one).
LambeauPlain
April 27, 2022 at 11:53 am
Thanks for the forward from McGinn...didn't even have to pay for it!
BirdDogUni
April 27, 2022 at 10:56 am
Friendly Reminder:
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BirdDogUni
April 27, 2022 at 10:58 am
Glad you made it LLChesty! ; )
That makes it 10 of us, so you're guaranteed a top Ten finish! ; P
whysoserious
April 27, 2022 at 12:15 pm
If The Packers are in win now mode then they should draft defense with their first two picks. If they can get the right guys on the d-line o, mlb or edge rusher this defense could be nasty. Everyone seems stuck on WR again in the first round. Has Rodgers changed his way of thinking since the season ended? A lot of folks were happy when they finally drafted a receiver in Amari Rodgers last year. How did that go? How did MVS, and EQ go? How did Davante go? Rodgers did not want to throw to any of them when they came into the league. It took years but somehow everyone thinks he is going to change his ways if we draft a receiver in the first round this year. Why? He has to trust the receiver which takes a couple of years. In a couple of years A-Rod will most likely be gone. Build the defense and keep an eye out for a deal on another veteran to add to the receiving core and draft a couple in the 2nsd and 3rd round for the future.
SanLobo
April 27, 2022 at 02:37 pm
If your mock draft generates this many comments, can’t wait to see what your analysis after the draft generates. Good articles as usual.
SpikeHyzer
April 27, 2022 at 02:44 pm
Love it.
I wasn't familiar with all the players, but I appreciate how you attacked the most important needs in the proper order. I'm a huge fan of the names I did know and feel this would be a great draft if the Pack got any of these players.
Well done!
BirdDogUni
April 27, 2022 at 02:59 pm
One last Mock with First-Pick to see if they changed their rankings... Nope. Still totally unrealistic, but sure would be nice.
Round 1 Pick 22: Jordan Davis, DT, Georgia
Round 1 Pick 28: Devin Lloyd, ILB/OLB, Utah
Round 2 Pick 22: Alex Wright, DE/OLB, UAB
Round 2 Pick 28: Christian Watson, WR, North Dakota State
Round 3 Pick 28: Alec Pierce, WR, Cincinnati
Round 4 Pick 28: Cade Otton, TE, Washington
Round 4 Pick 35 (COMP): Bryan Cook, FS/SS, Cincinnati
Round 5 Pick 28: Abraham Lucas, OT, Washington State
Round 7 Pick 7: Pierre Strong Jr., RB, South Dakota State
Round 7 Pick 28: Kalon Barnes, CB, Baylor
Round 7 Pick 37 (COMP): Reggie Roberson Jr., WR, SMU
SpikeHyzer
April 27, 2022 at 03:59 pm
I may as well make a mock since I've read so many:
22-George Pickens WR
28- George Karlaftis EDGE
53-Bernard Raimann OT
59-Jalen Tolbert WR
92-DeMarvin Leal DT
132-Jelani Woods TE
140-Alontae Taylor CB
150s-160s-Matt Araiza P (for picks 171, 249 and 258)
228-Josh Sills OL
I'd hit the UDFA market for more OL depth, and to take a flyer on Scott Nelson from WI.
Since I do expect him to keep the top 4 picks, it would be just like Gutey to trade up for a Punter!
Thegreatreynoldo
April 28, 2022 at 06:45 am
That is a group loaded with talent. Absolutely dripping with talent.
Johnblood27
April 27, 2022 at 05:01 pm
2 WSU Cougars, I approve!
Alumni bias...
TxPackFan
April 27, 2022 at 06:20 pm
OK, it didn't go as I expected, but here's my final pre-draft mock simulator from PFN:
22. G. Karlaftis - Edge
28. D. Hill - Safety
49. K. Green - IOL
59. J. Tolbert - WR
92. J. Gunter - Edge
132. T. Castro-Fields - CB
140. K. Austin - WR
203. Z Horvath - RB/TE
228. T. Booker - DT
249. C. Campbell - LB
I didn't plan to trade up for anybody, but Kenyon Green kept dropping and dropping. I started trying to trade up for him about pick 43 and kept getting rejected over and over. Didn't want to give up too much. Finally got a taker at 49. Have to admit I was in a desperate fury by the time I got him. The value there was too good to give up. I figure we kick Jenkins outside and if he's not ready when the season starts sign Dennis Kelly back and have him and Nijman compete for the spot.
Tolbert is a solid choice as WR. I wanted to let one fall to me and not reach in a good-but-not-great class. I double dipped with one of my favorite players in the draft, Kevin Austin. Normally I'm skeptical about guys who were suspended in college. But I've read what he's been saying since before last college season started, what Coach Dennis Kelly has said, and what teammates like Kyle Hamilton have said about how he handled it and adjusted himself. The dude wasn't officially suspended but was exiled to the scout team for an entire year as a punishment. That could have gone south quickly but everybody says he came out, played hard, and worked to make his teammates better every single day. I'm not skeptical about him at all. He seems to have figured it out. He is also the best athletic WR prospect in this draft, who made huge leaps last year, the first he had a chance to actually see significant playing time. If he keeps growing professionally, he legit has a chance to be the best receiver in this class when it's all said and done.
Also, Horvath is a huge but super athletic RB who also used to be an LB. Guy is 6'3" 230. Has great hands and 9.83 RAS as an RB...but also a 9+ RAS when evaluated as a TE. That's the plan. Convert him to a TE. Let him spend a year gaining weight and learning the ins and outs. The guy has good speed but more importantly, elite agility and strength. Also, as a former LB, the dude would seriously knock some heads on teams, which we need in a bad way. Bisaccia would cry with joy.
Booker and Campbell are projects, but both super athletic w/ a lot of upside potential.
I would be 100% satisfied if this is how it really played out. Thoughts?
greengold
April 27, 2022 at 07:37 pm
I like all of those guys, Tx! Not as high on Tolbert, but he is a volume WR, a good one too, and tough. I didn’t spend much time studying Austin. Don’t know Gunter nor Campbell.
Karlaftis, Hill, Green, all fantastic players there.
Booker’s intriguing. He’s got production in pass rush, but not much in run stop.
Horvath could be a lot of fun if we run the ball enough. Castro-Fields is a good, versatile DB if I remember correctly.
TxPackFan
April 28, 2022 at 07:59 am
I settled on Tolbert because he checks off all the boxes I have for WR when most of the others considered higher didn't (other than Watson). For instance the 3-cone is very indicative of potential success and is a big drill for me. More than any other drill, it shows me who has the ability to separate and who doesn't. Refusing to run it (without being injured) tells me something and is a yellow flag. Doing poorly is a red flag. Tolbert's time was not elite, but it was good...box checked. However, Pickens refused to run it...yellow flag. Olave refused to run it...yellow flag. Hell even Garrett Wilson refused to run it, but he'll be long gone by the time we pick. Alternatively, Dotson and Burks both ran a 7.28, which is horrible.
Fun fact; Of the 22 receivers drafted in the Ted/Gutey era, 3 did not run the 3-cone, all because of injury. Of the remaining 19, only one ran a slower time than Dotson and Burks (Cory Rodgers 7.35). Even though he was picked in the 4th round, that guy never played a single NFL down for any team and washed out of the CFL within 2 years.
The next closest ran it nearly 0.1 seconds *faster*. That was Amari Rodgers (7.19). And we've all seen the struggles he's had separating. Every other one has run the 3-cone AT LEAST 0.2 seconds faster than Burks and Dotson. That's a LOT. Red flags on those two. They are literally off my board.
Skyy Moore...too small...and his metrics were generally on the same par as Tolbert's. Alec Pierce is a possibility but he's not a 1st round guy and I would have had to trade up in the 2nd to get him.,
For me it's better to have a productive and still growing guy who checks the boxes fall to me than reach for guys that have significant yellow and red flags or basically the same evaluation. I also didn't feel like I could wait any longer. He was the last of the guys who I feel might be able to contribute NOW But hey...everybody's got an opinion, right?
As for Austin, he has elite traits who for one reason or another (suspension, injury) was never able to get on the field in college until last year. Having said that, he showed massive growth in his only full season at Notre Dame. He has a Davante Adams build too, but likewise might take a year or so to settle in.
And for Booker, I personally would rather have a big, fat, immovable guy to eat up blockers and keep the LBs clean to make plays. But hearing what the coaches are saying (which admittedly could be a smokescreen) they want athletic guys to attack. I would have loved to draft Travis Jones, but that doesn't seem to be the profile they're looking for. What are you going to do? They want what they want.
Horvath could be fun to watch. He's a football player, looking for an NFL position.
Tundraboy
April 27, 2022 at 06:57 pm
Great list but while we're at it I'm hoping for Travis!!
Wildcomet
April 27, 2022 at 09:43 pm
I decided to do my own Draft sim using Pro Football Network's simulator and here's what I got:
I like trading down, especially in this draft, so I actually traded both Round 1 picks in two separate trades that were offered to me. Aside from getting picks 40, 45, 72 and 76, I got BAL's Rd 2 and NE's Rd 5 picks in 2023. This gives me 7 total picks in Rounds 2 & 3 where I think a lot of good talent can be found, and the extra 2nd & 5th picks next year are nice.
2-40: OT Tyler Smith - Tulsa - He has all the tools physically to bolster a line that needs to replace two starters. There's no reason he can't succeed in Green Bay and take the RT spot (aside from possibly Nijman taking another step up). Would allow Jenkins to remain inside at Guard.
2-45: Edge David Ojabo - Michigan - Like the last Michigan Edge we drafted is a great athlete at the position and would not need to be a Day 1 starter, but could definitely contribute right away on 3rd downs, letting Gary move down like Z did.
2-53: WR Jalen Tolbert - South Alabama - Sadly four threats in the passing game I was hoping would be here (TE McBride, WRs Dotson, Pierce and Moore) all went in a run between 46 & 52. Luckily Tolbert is also high on my board and available. I like size/speed/quickness combo and his footwork for getting separation.
2-59: DT Travis Jones - Connecticut - Time to give the D-Line some more help. The Packers love their 2-man defensive fronts and Jones has the size, strength and leverage to handle the demands that brings and the athleticism to make plays on the field as well.
3-72: QB Sam Howell - North Carolina - So we're here and this guy is still available. I get Russell Wilson (who iirc also was a 3rd rd pick) vibes from him with both his stature and how he plays, and I think he would have very good potential in LaFleur's offense. PFN doesn't allow for player trades so no dealing Rodgers or Love here in response. I just think the value is too good to give up, even if the need is not there.
3-76: CB Tariq Woolen - The Packers have the depth to take a project here, but you can never have enough good CBs and he has very rare physical traits at the position and the Packers coaching staff could do a lot with his raw talent.
3-92: TE Greg Dulcich - UCLA - The Packers haven't had tons of luck with 3rd Round TEs but they do like trying the position here. Dulcich can hopefully be a winning pick here for them, and would give Green Bay a good looking dual threat with Tonyan and also let Deguara focus more on the H-Back role.
4-132: OT Zach Tom - Wake Forest - Here Green Bay find another big, athletic lineman to restock the cabinet with and trust their coaches to do another good job turning talent into production.
4-140: WR Wan'Dale Robinson - Kentucky - He's definitely undersized, but could give the Packers another versatile option in the slot who could take some reps in the backfield at times also.
5-171: CB Marcus Jones - Houston - I've seen him on PFF sims go in Rd 3 a couple times, so seeing him late in Round 5 looks good here. Undersized like Robinson, but very quick, good in coverage and was a top kick/punt returner in the country.
7-228: S Tycen Anderson - Toledo - A high RAS (9.48) guy who also demonstrated strong discipline in college playing in a position where we could use him if he works out, and one where he has room if he can contribute well on Special Teams.
7-249: C Dawson Deaton - Texas Tech - Another high RAS (9.7) player who gives more competition along the interior of the offensive line. I trust the Packers coaches to develop OL after the past few years, so any chance to find a guy with top measurables to let them develop sounds good to me.
7-258: WR Velus Jones Jr - Tennessee - Another player with potential to be a returner who can also add competition to a WR room which is being rebuilt before our eyes. I've seen him go much higher than this in other mocks & sims.